Due to continuing issues with some amateur operators, it has become necessary to publish the following policy regarding the use of the 146.790 W4ABR repeater.
All operators are welcome to use the repeater when it is not in use for scheduled nets or emergencies.
All users of the W4ABR repeater will conduct themselves in a proper manner as to verbal conduct and FCC Part 97 regulations. In addition, the following practices are prohibited:
Kerchuncking or keying the repeater without using your call sign. If you are testing your radio, say your call sign followed by stating you are testing. You may call for a radio check by using the same format.
Not yielding to a conversation already in progress. This repeater is operated in both analog and digital System Fusion modes. Deliberate interference is not tolerated in any way, shape or form.
Operator Conduct: All users are expected to conduct themselves in a reasonable and appropriate manner. This is not a violation of your First Amendment right to free speech. You are a guest in our house and if your conduct is deemed offensive or inappropriate you will be asked to cease.
Monopolizing the repeater: While the repeater system is open for general amateur use, we request that roundtable discussions are kept to a reasonable time frame, so that others may use the system when needed.
NETS: Any request to hold an organized Net on the repeater system must be submitted to JCARA for approval. We reserve the right to restrict the use of the repeater system at our discretion.
The W4ABR Repeater is the primary VHF repeater for emergencies in Washington County, any ARES® Standby, Training or Emergency net takes priority over all other communications.
The following actions are also prohibited:
Attempting to link this repeater to any other repeater or system without the permission of the system administrators and the Board of Directors. This includes the use of rf linking, VoIP client (Echolink, IRLP, Wires-X, reflectors or bridging of a reflector or the use of a dual band radio in crossband mode. Violations of this policy will result in the offending user being banned from the use of the W4ABR repeater.
Deliberate interference by any station or operator will be tracked down and violators may be banned from the use of the repeater and repeated violations sent to the FCC for further action.
It is unfortunate that the actions of a few have made these policies necessary. JCARA operates the W4ABR repeater in support of the Amateur Radio community at large and for emergency communications when required. We thank you for your cooperation.
Use Policy Ver 1.0.03
01/02/2023